News Release

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department is asking for the public’s help to find the person responsible for the brutal murder of 15-year-old Kari Lenander more than 30 years ago. The Los Angeles City Council has also approved a $50,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murder.

On July 26, 1980, the body of Lenander was found lying in the 3700 block of Victoria Avenue. She had been brutally murdered, the apparent victim of a sexually motivated crime. Although the LAPD conducted an extensive investigation, the case has remained unsolved for decades.

In 2001 Cold Case detectives reopened the investigation and have worked diligently to solve it. Recently, with advanced DNA testing capabilities, significant information has been developed, but detectives’ still need the public’s help to identify the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call LAPD Robbery-Homicide Division, Cold Case Special Section Detective Tim Marcia at 213-486-6810. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.